Jeannie Seely – Photo by Cyndi Hornsby

Hometown Country Music was the first to break the sad news of Grand Ole Opry star Jeannie Seely’s passing today on social media, and now we’ve got some reactions coming in from the country music world.  First, here is the press release from her publicist, then below will be quotes from some of her peers.

Photo Credit: Peter Yang

Sad news to report, as we’ve gotten the below press release announcing the passing of Kris Kristofferson.  Scroll down to the bottom to see what his peers are saying in remembrance of his passing:

Artist, singer, songwriter, actor and activist Kris Kristofferson passed away peacefully in his home in Maui, Hawaii Saturday, September 28, surrounded by family. He was 88 years old.

Born Kristoffer Kristofferson in the border town of Brownsville, Texas on June 22, 1936, Kristofferson changed the language of country music, with extraordinary internal rhymes, Shakespearean iambic pentameter, and socially progressive subject matter that found the personal within the political.

He was a Rhodes Scholar in Oxford, a defensive back, a bartender, a Golden Gloves boxer, a gandy dancer, a forest firefighter, a road crew member, and an Army Ranger who flew helicopters. He was a peacenik, a revolutionary, an actor, a superstar, a sex symbol, and a family man. He was commissioned to teach English at West Point, though he gave that up to become a Nashville songwriting bum.

Sam Peckinpah cast him as Billy the Kid. Willie Nelson recorded an entire album of his songs, then joined him in supergroup The Highwaymen, with Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings. Muhammad Ali sat side-stage at his concerts. Mama Cass Elliot called him “No Eyes.” Atlantic Monthly published his short stories.

He believed that songwriting is a spiritual communion of mind, body, and soul, and he believed that William Blake was correct in asserting that anyone divinely ordered for spiritual communion but buries his talent will be pursued by sorrow and desperation through life and by shame and confusion for eternity.

“(Blake) is telling you that you’ll be miserable if you don’t do what you’re supposed to do,” Kristofferson said in the Ken Burns’ documentary Country Music.

Kristofferson’s devotion to spiritual communion brought much in the way of sorrow, desperation, and misery, but it led to triumph.

His work ethic was evident from an early age, celebrated by his parents and, when he was a teenager, a construction supervisor on Wake Island said he was the best worker on the construction crew.

“I took pride in being the best laborer, the guy that could dig the ditches the fastest,” he said. “Something inside me made me want to do the tough stuff . . . Part of it was that I wanted to be a writer, and I figured that I had to get out and live. I know that’s why I ran in front of the bulls in Pamplona.”

The son of a major general and a philanthropic mother, Kristofferson spent his childhood learning lessons in honor and civility, though he arrived at different notions of these things than did his parents. He graduated high school in San Mateo, California, in 1954, then attended Pomona College, where he played football (“I was pretty slow, but I was small,” he said) and studied writing under Dr. Frederick Sontag, who pushed him to apply for a Rhodes scholarship. At Oxford, he wrote stories and examined the works of William Blake.

Kristofferson earned his master’s from Oxford in 1960, then returned to California, married his high school sweetheart, joined the Army, and learned to fly helicopters. In the Army, he wrote funny songs inspired by Hank Williams, until he fell under the sway of folk maestro Bob Dylan.

“The direction Dylan was pointing in made it a respectable ambition, a respectable thing to do,” Kristofferson said.

The Army assigned Kristofferson to teach literature at West Point, a duty that frightened him once he found that he’d have to turn in lesson plans, explaining to superiors exactly what he’d be teaching in class. He said, “It sounded like hell to me.”

And so, in 1965, he came to Nashville to visit with Marijohn Wilkin, the songwriter of “Long Black Veil” and a relation of Kristofferson’s Army platoon leader. On Kristofferson’s first Nashville night, he met Cowboy Jack Clement, a renegade creative who would become a lifelong friend. Soon after that, Wilkin helped Kristofferson get a backstage pass to the Grand Ole Opry, where he met a pacing panther named Johnny Cash. In less than two Music City weeks, Kristofferson decided to resign his Army post and move to Nashville to write songs. Soon after, he met successful songwriter Tom T. Hall in a Nashville bar. Kristofferson introduced himself to Hall, who said “Good to see you . . . It’s a hairy-legged town.”

Kristofferson scuffled for more than four years in Nashville, entering his 30s as what his parents considered a ne’er do well who was dragging down the family name. He worked as a janitor at CBS’s Nashville studio, happy to empty trash cans and make coffee in exchange for access to recording sessions by Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and others. He rode around on a well-bruised Honda motorcycle, and neglected family matters in ways that came to haunt him and that doomed his first marriage. He was heartened by praise from the people whom he hoped would become peers. When his “From the Bottle to the Bottom” was recorded by Grand Ole Opry star Billy Walker in 1969, Tom T. Hall said, “God, that’s a great song” and quoted lines back to the fledgling talent.

“That kind of thing was enough to keep me going back then,” Kristofferson said.

After more than four years in songwriting purgatory, things began to roll Kristofferson’s way. Ray Stevens recorded his “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” and Johnny Cash recorded the same song and took it to the top of the country charts. Cash performed “Sunday Mornin'” on his ABC television show, and, despite the cries of network censors, refused to change Kristofferson’s line “Wishing, Lord, that I was stoned” to “Wishing, Lord, that I was home.” That song was voted the Country Music Association’s song of the year in 1970.

Roger Miller, one of Kristofferson’s songwriting heroes, recorded “Me and Bobby McGee,” a song inspired by publisher and Monument Records boss Fred Foster’s suggestion that a song should be written about Foster’s secretary, Bobby McKee. And Kristofferson’s “For the Good Times” was recorded by the great Ray Price and became a No. 1 country hit.

After arguing with Foster about his validity as a recording artist (Kristofferson said, “I sing like a fucking frog,” to which Foster replied, “Yes, but like a frog that can communicate.”), Kristofferson’s first solo album came out in April of 1970. It contained now-classics including “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” “Me and Bobby McGee,” “To Beat the Devil,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” “Just the Other Side of Nowhere,” “Darby’s Castle,” and “Best of All Possible Worlds.” It began with “Blame It On the Stones,” a song that opened with the decidedly non-traditional line, “Mr. Marvin Middle Class is really in a stew/ Wonderin’ what the younger generation’s coming to.”

With that debut album, Kristofferson emerged as a luminous figure whose fame expanded far beyond country music. Janis Joplin recorded “Me and Bobby McGee,” which became her signature hit. And Kristofferson became a counter-culture darling, beloved by artists and listeners who had never before paid attention to country music.

“You can look at Nashville pre-Kris and post-Kris, because he changed everything,” said Bob Dylan.

Kristofferson’s second album, The Silver Tongued Devil and I, came out on Monument Records in 1971 and contained “The Pilgrim – Chapter 33,” a song he claimed to write about friends Cash, Chris Gantry, Funky Donnie Fritts, and others but later admitted was mostly about himself. “He’s a walkin’ contradiction, partly truth and partly fiction,” he sang. “Taking every wrong direction on his lonely way back home.”

All those wrong directions led to some spectacular locales. In 1971, Kristofferson began a side career as an actor. He would go on to win a Golden Globe award for his role in A Star Is Born, and to act in numerous films including Semi-Tough, Songwriter, Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea, Lone Star, and Blade. He toured the world with his band and with Rita Coolidge, his wife from 1973 until 1980. He moved from Nashville to California. And he released seven solo albums between 1972 and 1979.

This flurry of activity and the accompanying celebrity did not ease Kristofferson’s mind, which was prone to depression, or his problematic drinking habit. The heady years of grand success proved to be some of the most difficult of his life.

“The darkness is driving me farther away from the shore/ Throw me a rhyme or a reason to try to go on,” he wrote and sang in “Shipwrecked in the 80s.” He found rhyme and reason in the graceful form of Lisa Meyers, who married Kristofferson in 1983 and helped him get his life under control. The couple would have five children together.

In 1985, Kristofferson joined Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson to form the supergroup now called The Highwaymen. The group returned Kristofferson’s voice to radio, provided a larger audience for him to relay his critical and sometimes controversial views on American foreign policy, and offered him great joy.

“Every time I look at a picture of Willie and me and John and Waylon, I find it amazing that they let the janitor in there,” he told journalist Mikal Gilmore.

After two roundly ignored solo albums for Mercury Records, Repossessed and Third World Warrior, Kristofferson began working with producer Don Was in 1995. Their creative partnership proved fruitful, with Was’ restrained production allowing the gristly character in Kristofferson’s voice to be heard to full effect, and with Kristofferson writing pensive, eloquent songs that rank with his finest works. “It’s about making sense of life at this end of the game,” Kristofferson said about his 2009 Closer to the Bone album, and that comment also applies to Was-produced works A Moment of Forever (2006), This Old Road (2009), and Feeling Mortal (2013). On his 80^th birthday in 2016, Kris released The Cedar Creek Sessions, which was nominated for a Grammy for best Americana Album six months later.

Until the pandemic in 2020, Kristofferson toured incessantly in the 21st century, a quiet man in worn brown boots, commanding stages with only his guitar and harmonica for accompaniment. His Gibson acoustic might go out of tune . . . no matter. In his final years he performed with Merle Haggard’s band, The Strangers.

In 2003, Kristofferson received the Free Speech Award from the Americana Music Association and in 2004 he became a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Since then, he received lifetime achievement honors from BMI, The Recording Academy, the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music, among many others.

“When I got started, I was one of the people hoping to bring respect to country music,” he said. “Some of the songs I had that got to be hits did that. I imagine that’s why somebody might vote me into a Hall of Fame. I know it’s not because of my golden throat.”

On the back cover of The Silver Tongued Devil and I, Kristofferson advised that his songs were “Echoes of the going ups and coming downs, walking pneumonia and run-of-the-mill madness, colored with guilt, pride, and a vague sense of despair.”

Sometimes divine communion, then, is holy hell. Kristofferson brought some of that hell on himself, and he lived through times when guilt and despair were anything but vague, and when pride was hard to conjure. Asked about regrets, he said, “Listen, I have those. But my life has turned out so well for me that I would be afraid to change anything.”

Kristofferson’s survived by his wife, Lisa; eight children, Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, John, Kelly, and Blake; and seven grandchildren, who offer the following consolatory statement:

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news our husband/father/grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 28 at home. We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.” – The Family of Kris Kristofferson

The family asks for privacy during this time.

Here is what his peers are saying about his passing (we’ll be updating this as we get more quotes to add):

• Alan Jackson  – Thanks for all the inspiration. Rest in Peace Kris Kristofferson.
• Anne Murray – Gooodbye Kris. What an extraordinary songwriter and joy to work with you were!
• Anthony Smith – The songwriter that influenced me, the most and the coolest guy I ever knew. The great Kris Kristofferson.
• Ashley McBryde – Thank you for teaching us to write.  And for teaching me how to beat the devil.  Rest now Mr. Kristofferson.
• Bellamy Brothers – We were asked to produce an album by a Record Label in Europe with lots of stars from Switzerland and American singers duetting together. All of the singers wanted to do ‘Bobby McGee’ but we hadn’t seen Kris for a while and didn’t have a contact for him. A friend of ours mentioned he knew how to reach him and so we asked him to explain the project and see if Kris would be part of it. He answered us almost immediately and said he would love to do it and to tell Howard and David just to send the tracks to his studio in Hawaii and he’d record the vocals. Of course all of the Swiss Artists were so excited they all wanted to sing with him, and so they did, from the Yodelers to the Rock Stars to the Folk Singers and everything in between because Kris’ music is Universal, everyone knows it and everyone loves to sing it & everyone will miss Kris Kristofferson so much but his Legacy will live on. We love you Kris. #whymelord
• Big Kenny – Rest in peace @kristofferson What an amazing poet, songwriter, actor and inspiration to so many in our time. Forever grateful for his spoken contribution to our song the 8th of November. Blessed we got to share some time and laughs. Such a great spirit. Sending condolences to his wife Lisa and family and all his fans.
• Bill Anderson – Kris Kristofferson was the songwriter’s songwriter. We all looked up to him and wished we could have written with such “elegant simplicity.” His music will live forever, and I will forever treasure the times I got to spend with him. Rest in peace, my friend, knowing that you were the best.
• Billy Dean – Kris Kristofferson taught us the difference between simplicity and trite, sexy and vulgar, broken and reborn.
• Billy Ray Cyrus – The magnitude of Kris Kristofferson’s greatness is beyond words. As a man, a musician, a songwriter, a singer, an actor, and a humanitarian… he set the bar for what it means to live fully and authentically. His legendary impact on music and humanity will resonate forever.
• Blackberry Smoke – Rest in peace, brother Kris Kristofferson. We love ya
• Carolyn Dawn Johnson – This is truly sad….what a gentle spirit and brilliant poet…..I have been around him only once and he was so kind…….I hope I leave this kind of legacy
• Cody Jinks – This is a real picture of me and Ward looking in at the man himself, Ward and I had the honor of playing a show with him some years ago. There might as well have been a light radiating from that room as Ward and I waited. We pondered on what we would say when we got to say hi. To songwriters like us this man was larger than life, still is. The importance of his contributions to music will go on as he is arguably one of the greatest God has blessed us with. Let’s all sing Why Me Lord, today. Thank you Kris Kristofferson!
• Collin Raye – I’m very saddened this week at the news that the great Kris Kristofferson has passed away. Even though Kris lived a long life, it’s still difficult to accept that he’s gone. Of all the amazing songwriters who influenced and inspired me, and there are many, no one else wrote more songs that touched me deeply than Kristofferson. A consummate lyricist who changed country music songwriting forever. His passing, coming only days after the death of my friend Hugh Prestwood, whom like Kris wrote so many lyrical and musical masterpieces, has made this week a devastating loss for our industry and music. Kris penned my favorite line of all time: ‘I’d trade all of my tomorrows, for one single yesterday.’ May you be at peace, Kris. I most assuredly will be paying tribute to Kris and to Hugh onstage for quite some time. May God bless and comfort these men. Two of His finest poets.
• Cory Morrow – May The Lord receive your soul and may you rest in His peace and Love forever.  Like so many others, Kris Kristofferson has been a tremendous influence, not just in the music that we strive toward, but in the men we desire to be for those around us. I didn’t know him personally, but have met him on more than one occasion. Nothing but genuine kindness and grace did I see. I am going to be playing me some Kristofferson music today!! May God bless you all today. Stop and give thanks today for the blessings in your life.
• Dallas Wayne – We lost a friend and hero yesterday for all of us who look upon country music songwriting as poetry. Kris Kristofferson was the gold standard in sharing emotions and stories in song. Condolences go out to his wife Lisa and their entire family. Thank you for showing us all how it’s done. Rest well.
• Darius Rucker – We lost one of the kindest most beautiful souls that God gave us. I will miss u my friend. I love u Kriss. I just love u man!!
• Daryl Worley – Meeting Kristofferson was one of the huge highlights of my life. He was so kind and an absolute perfect gentleman. He even knew one of my songs, ‘Second Wind,’ and of course that made my head swell. He was a brilliant man but I think his greatest offerings came in the songs. My goal in life was always to be the best songwriter I could be. Looking back over his work is probably the best example anyone could ever see. Thanks Kris. You served us all in many different ways and we are forever indebted. You will be missed.
• David Frizzell – I am always at a special event when I see Kris. The last two times were when him and my brother Lefty were getting inducted in to “The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame” and we both were gonna do a show for the event (he had heard I forgot my harmonica for the show and gave me one of his) and then a few years ago The NSAI had their 50th anniversary event and I was there with Shelly to do “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” and got to visit with Kris before the show. What a great talent and we are gonna miss him!
• Deana Carter – So sad to lose this special soul. Thank you for your love and brilliance @kristofferson. One of a kind. Sending all my love to Lisa & the whole family.
• Deborah Allen – I am heartbroken to hear that Kris Kristofferson has pass away. He was such a beautiful human being, a prolific poet, a brilliant, legendary songwriter and an Icon in the world of music and film. I’m so grateful to God that I had the honor and privilege of calling him my friend. He was a gift to all of us and he will be Loved, Missed and Remembered… Forever. Rest in Heavenly Peace Kris…
  PS… I cant help but think about how perfectly God had it so poetically planned to bring Kris home on this “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down” …and how, Kris now knows all the answers to the questions he asked in his amazing song, “Why Me Lord.”   I love theses heartfelt words from his family in their statement this evening:  (Sunday, September 29) We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us.”

  Dennis Quaid – Our thoughts and prayers are for his family.  God’s love flowed out of Kris through his songs and his very being. God has a special place for him.  A life well-lived, a great soul now become a guiding star.
• Dolly Parton – Kris Kristofferson. What a great loss.  What a great writer.  What a great actor.  What a great friend.  I will always love you, Dolly
• Don McLean – Kris and I shared a magical weekend together. We both were introduced by legends at The Newport Folk Festival in 1969. Johnny Cash brought him and introduced him. Pete Seeger brought me and introduced me. If that were not enough, other artists made their debut as well such as James Taylor and Van Morrison. To top it off we landed a man on the moon that weekend and everybody was writing songs. Whenever I saw him we would always talk about it. Kris was a fine man
• Duane Allen (Oak Ridge Boys) – When The Oak Ridge Boys were searching for a way to grow our career we listened to Kris Kristofferson’s music. The stories in his songs were things we were experiencing. Then, he wrote, “Why Me Lord”. When we heard that song the message struck home. It assured us that we were on the right track. We love Kris and his beautiful family. Please remember them in your prayers.
• Eric Church – Kris, The ultimate life well lived. Thank you for being a beacon of light in a darkening world. You were my hero and my role model. And even then, you managed to exceed my expectations when you became my friend.  So long Captain. Till we meet again.  PS I found this on my phone.
• Exile – We had the pleasure of being around Kris Kristofferson several times… He was a true genius. He may be gone but his songs will live forever… Rest in Peace
• Gary LeVox – U will be missed my friend! Ur legacy and that smile will live on forever! Rip
• Gary Morris – A heartbreaking loss…. an American icon.
• Gene Watson – RIP Kris Kristofferson. Prayers to your family.
• George Strait – So sad to hear of the passing of Kris Kristofferson. Artists and songwriters of this caliber come along very rarely and he certainly made his mark on the world. My family, like most people, were huge fans and we will all miss him. I knew him on a professional level only but I always felt like it was more because of the kindness and respect he showed me on the times we met. I’ll treasure those times forever.  He lived one heck of a life and I’m hoping it has only just begun for him. God bless Kris and all of the Kristofferson family.
• Georgette Jones – A huge piece of Country Music history and a wonderful, kind and talented man has left us. My parents new him as a friend and genius. I never met him and it’s a regret I’ll always have. RIP Mr Kris Kristofferson. You are forever remembered.
• Gord Bamford – Sad news, R.I.P. Kris Kristofferson. The world has lost a music legend.
• Hailey Whitters – we lost a real one over the weekend @kkristofferson
• Heath Wright (Ricochet) – I was saddened to find out a few minutes ago that one of America’s great poets is gone! Kris Kristofferson was a true Renaissance man, a Rhodes scholar, a soldier, a helicopter pilot, a songwriter/recording artist, an actor, an author, and more. But to me, he was the living legend that made me feel good about myself at an award show one night when he ran us down to tell us how much he enjoyed our performance! RIP Kris Kristofferson – “Please don’t tell me how the story ends
• Jack Ingram – Kris Kristofferson is brilliant. A unique, solitary soul who dedicated his entire life to mastering the gift he was given. A kind soul. A generous heart. His lucky boxers were black polka dot!!!
• James Otto – RIP to one of the greatest poets country music ever had. Kris Kristofferson lived to be 88. His life story is legend at this point.
• Jamie Lin Wilson – Kris Kristofferson.  Once, I stood so close to him I could have touched him. Or at least said hi.  I studied his songs so much that I have them written down with notations. I stole his melodies, his phrasing. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind, in fact I think he’d have encouraged it. “let’s all get together and steal each other’s songs”, of course.  His swagger, his confidence, his intelligence, insight, humor, and sensitivity. What a legend.  That generation of songwriter – how they encouraged each other and sang each other’s songs – that’s what motivates me to make friends in music. We’re not competitors. It’s art. We’re builder-uppers.  Damn. What a loss, but what a life.  I heard that he heard my cover of “Just the Other Side of Nowhere” and he approved. Can’t beat that feeling.
• Janie Fricke – I’ll always cherish the memory of singing harmonies on “Why Me Lord” with Kris and Willie on the country homecoming show – I recorded that song he wrote and sing it at every concert I do – thanks to my friend Kris.
• Jay DeMarcus – Saddened to hear about the loss of Kris Kristofferson… we keep losing all the good ones and Heaven is getting full. RIP Kris…
• JD Shelburne – RIP Kris Kristofferson
• Jeannie Seely – As our music industry is ever-changing, this is one loss that will be felt from now on. We will never hear songs like his again. His legacy will be one of respect for the kind of man he was, as well as his music.
• Jennifer Nettles – We are blessed to have had such a talent in our lifetime. Musician, songwriter, actor, he remains an inspiration. Rest in grace with music all around. @kristofferson Thank you for the gifts of your art.
• Jimmy Wayne – I’ve shared the stage with many acts, artist and lots of legends. September 11, 2004 was a very special evening. #KrisKristofferson met me backstage at a venue and introduced himself. We talked for a few minutes and then he asked me if I would tune his guitar. I was so nervous. I took my time and made sure his guitar was perfectly in tune. Shortly before Kris went on stage I handed him his guitar. He walked out to the microphone and stood in front of thousands of people and performed his hits with the guitar I’d just tuned. I watched his show from the side of the stage and thought to myself, “ I just tuned Kris Kristofferson‘s guitar. I think I’m gonna be telling this story for the rest of my life.” That was one very cool and unforgettable experience.  RIP, Mr. Kristofferson.
• John Ford Coley – This is another one that just really hurts. We are losing the cream of the crop. I so admired Kris Kristofferson. I remember the first time that I heard “Me and Bobby McGee” and I thought who in the world wrote this one. I learned that thing backwards and forwards. Just the one line of “pulled my harpoon out of my dirty red bandanna” to this day still has to be one of the best visuals lyrics I’ve ever heard. I was in love with his music ever since. What a remarkable writer.
• John McEuen – Kris Kristofferson made great music for us that was brought to life by Elvis, Cash, Joplin, and Kris himself (and many others). What a sad day to lose him. I recorded with him at John Carter Cash’s cabin studio on a Carter Family song (Gold Watch and Chain), and met up with him several times over the years before and after that. While watching his solo show in St. Petersburg, Florida I was amazed at the calm control and love he got from his audience.
• John Rich – So sad to hear Kris Kristofferson has passed. He and I became friends over the years, and it was a distinct honor every time I got to work or hang out with him. He was one of the greatest lyricists to ever live, and a true class act. He set the bar so very high. Miss ya brother
• Johnny Lee – I have known Kris my entire career. He was truly one of a kind! My prayers for his family.
• Josh Grider – I have seen the morning burning golden on a mountain in the sky.  Aching with the freedom of the feeling of an eagle when she flies.  I’ve heard people play the “best opening lines of a song” game. They don’t get much better than those right there for me.  Rest in peace, Mr Kristofferson. Thank you for the songs.
• Kyle Young (Country Music Hall of Fame CEO) – Kris Kristofferson believed creativity is God-given, and those who ignore such a gift are doomed to unhappiness. He preached that a life of the mind gives voice to the soul, and his work gave voice not only to his soul but to ours. He leaves a resounding legacy.
• Lacy J. Dalton – In my opinion, Kris was one of the greatest songwriters ever – an incredible role model for me with my own writing – a hero, and a great, great man.  I will miss him terribly.
• Larry Gatlin – It would take a wordsmith as good as Kris Kristofferson himself to express the feelings going through me right now, but since Kris is not here I’ll just say, I’m sad that he’s not still here with us on earth, but I’m happy he’s in Heaven with Johnny and Waylon and Roger. Almost forgot JESUS. As in ‘Lord Help Me Jesus.’ And they are having one Heaven of a time.
• LeAnn Rimes – an epic human with the biggest heart  you will be so, so missed. rest easy, my friend.
• Lee Greenwood – Hard to believe my friend Kris Kristofferson has left us. He was successful in all areas of his life. A champion boxer, a world-class actor, a spectacular songwriter and singer, and a hero to everyone fortunate enough to know him. I will never forget his support for me when I received my first CMA Country Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year Award – his friendship and encouragement helped validate my career in country music and my place in Nashville. My family and I send our deepest sympathy to Kris’ family. We lost a giant in our industry today!
• Lee Roy Parnell – My heart is heavy today since getting the news of my friend, Kris Kristofferson’s passing.  No words could possibly express all the gratitude I feel for this fine man, both personally and professionally. He was truly one of a kind and his life… was a life well lived. I will miss him.  My thoughts and prayers are with the Kristofferson family.
• Levi Riggs – Rest in peace, Kris Kristofferson. Boxer, Songwriter, Highwayman, and Inspiration.
• Lulu Roman – Kris was always so sweet to me. They would throw us in the cornfield together on Hee Haw; those are some of my fondest memories. My prayers for his family
• Margo Price – I’m lighting a candle for Kris Kristofferson and thinking about of how lucky I was to come into his orbit even if it was just for a short time, because he was one of the best songwriters to ever live. My heart goes out to Lisa, his family and friends who loved and knew him well.
• Mark Powell – This is a sad day. @kristofferson was one of the greatest people and influences I have known. Deepest condolences to Lisa and family. RIP #kriskristofferson #genuine #legend
• Mark Wills – Saddened to learn of the passing of the legend, @kristofferson . Rest in peace, Sir.
• Marty Raybon – Kris was one of country music’s greatest voices.  May the light and incredible gifts he shared with the world live on for countless years to come. Let’s keep his family in our hearts and prayers.
• Matt Kennon – The world has lost another legend!  I’ll never forget how cool and kind he was the day I met him and we flew to LA on the same flight!  He was such a tremendous talent and one of the very best to ever do it!  I’ll never forget when I told him that his “Closer To The Bone” and My self titled Debut both were being released the same day on May 10, 2010, he said  “I’ll be looking for you buddy”. I sent him a shot of Jack and He said Thanks but I’m Drinking Scotch”  I’ll never forget that memory!  Well done Sir!  RIP Kris Kristifferson
• Michelle Wright – Kris Kristofferson has passed. I’ve lost track of how many times I sang Bobby McGee or Help Me Make It Through The Night playing clubs 6 nights a week dreaming of my own music career. Thank you for all the music and memories that I carry with me performing your songs. RIP
• Miranda Lambert – .@kkristofferson thank you for everything. Forever a hero. Your songs will live forever. So thankful I got to share the stage with you.  Rest easy.
• Moe Bandy – Kris had one of the greatest songwriting minds ever. What a gift that he shared with all of us. He was a very talented man. May he rest in peace.
• Oak Ridge Boys – We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the great Kris Kristofferson. Here is a video of us singing his classic, “Why Me,” 40 years ago.
• Old Crow Medicine Show – 10-4 good buddy. We love you forever and we will miss you always.
• Phil Vassar – Kris Kristofferson was one of my favorites. A true legend! He was such a renaissance man! One on one, he was so unassuming and humble. He was a great athlete, an amazing actor and artist. So smart and so incisive. What a storyteller.
• Ray Scott – Just… Damn. RIP. LEGEND..
• Ray Stevens – What a loss. When he first came to town, Bob Beckham called me and offered me any of his first songs to record. I chose ‘Sunday Morning Coming Down.’ It wasn’t a hit for me but it was for Cash. Kris had a way with words like no one else. Rest in Peace, Kris.
• Reba McEntire – What a gentleman, kind soul, and a lover of words. I am so glad I got to meet him and be around him. One of my favorite people. Rest in peace, Kris.
• Rhonda Vincent – I had the honor of playing a few festivals with Kris. I admired his work and know the music community feels a deep loss at his passing.
• Rich O’Toole – Damn. RIP Kris Kristofferson.
• Sheryl Crow – It is hard to imagine a world without Kris Kristofferson in it. Knowing and singing with him has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. I feel certain he will be holding court in heaven. Rip Kris. You will be missed
• Steve Azar – Few wrote them better
• than Kris Kristofferson! His words & melody were an amazing gift to us all! RIP
• Sunny Sweeney – RIP. Damn.
• T. Graham Brown – Kris was one of the greatest all-around talents in history. I’ve sung his songs my entire career. He was an American original and will be greatly missed.
• Terri Clark – While most kids are read bedtime stories by Dr Seuss and AA Milne, I fell asleep to my mother playing guitar and singing the stories of Kris Kristofferson. Thank you for sharing your talent with all of us. Sending love and prayers to his family and friends.
• Terry McBride – There’s not a singer, songwriter or musician of my generation that wasn’t influenced, inspired, or in awe of Kris Kristofferson. RIP.
• TG Sheppard – Another one of our great musical treasures Kris Kristofferson has left for home. He will go down as one of the most prolific writers in music history. To us he will go down as one of the nicest most down to earth talents that our business has ever known. I was honored to have the pleasure of working with him and any time Kelly Lang or I was in his presence it was a wonderful memory. R.I.P. Kris.
• Tim McGraw – Another legend lost…. Honored to have witnessed the great Kris Kristofferson
• Tim Montana – One of the BEST!
• Travis Tritt – Sad to hear of @Kris Kristofferson‘s passing. He was an inspiration to me and I was fortunate to get to know him on the set of “Outlaw Justice” that we filmed in Spain in 1998. My heartfelt condolences go out to Kris’s wife, Lisa and all of his family, friends and fans.
• Trent Tomlinson – This was truly one of the greatest nights of my life. I got to hang out on the bus with Kris and he even asked me to play him a song and as reluctant as I was, I knew it was an opportunity of a lifetime. He listened to every word I had to say, and then said , “Son that’s pretty damn good” that was all I needed to hear to let me know that I made the right decision to move to Nashville to pursue my dream. If it wasn’t for this night, I’m not sure I’d still be here doing what I’m doing. Rest in Peace my friend!
• Trisha Yearwood – This one hurts. The word legend gets tossed around a lot but with Kristofferson the shoe fits. These are shoes that won’t be filled. Rest easy.
• Ward Davis – It’s weird to think that one of the coolest things I ever got to do was change a guitar string with my buddy for the frustrated old man standing in that doorway right there. But it was Kris’ string, and we had no business anywhere near it. Yet, there we were. He was as we all are. A human being. Kris Kristofferson was an exceptional example.  I met a man once, in Marble, Colorado who had gone to college with Kris at Oxford. He told me “Kris…..turned his back on academia.” My response was, “Well, Thank God!” And I meant it. And God blessed us, yall. Giving us that man and his beautiful art. And God bless him for sharing it with us.

Artist Name:  Rick Revel
Hometown:  Henry, TN

What project(s) are you currently working on?

On August 15^th, 2024 my latest album That Muscle Shoals Sound and my new single “Southern Man (In A Strange Land)” were released simultaneously. The album was recorded at the Wishbone Recording Studio in Muscle Shoals, AL. My record producer Billy Lawson, recently finished a couple of projects for T Graham Brown and Sammy Kershaw, so I am blessed to be working with such a renowned and respected producer.

The reason I chose Muscle Shoals over Nashville or any other location, is very simple. Muscle Shoals has its own distinctive sound and that is what I wanted to capture. My music as of late has more of an Outlaw Country/Southern Rock feel with some Blues and R&B throw into the mix. I wanted to work with the people who had been creating that kind of music since day one.

When I wrote “Southern Man (In A Strange Land)” it painted a picture of the world in which we live today. I have been involved in heritage preservation for many years, so the tearing down of historical monuments and statues bothers me. Those bronze and stone images are placed there to remind us of the good, the bad and the ugly of American History. Without a doubt the song will tug at your heartstrings and the melody will be stuck in your head forever.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?

I went to a Baptist church when I was a little boy and before each sermon the congregation would sing. I even sang in the choir when I was old enough. At age ten I got a plastic guitar for Christmas, which stirred the musician in me. By age twelve I was playing on stage every Saturday night. When I was fifteen I went to Nashville and did my first TV show and by then there was no denying I would be an entertainer for the rest of my life.

If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?

I was born and raised on a cattle farm in West Tennessee and as a matter of fact I live on the same farm this very day. Over the years I have lived in Nashville and other areas for business purposes, but my home is here on the farm. If I couldn’t do music, I would be a farmer/rancher.

What is your favorite downtime activity?

To some I’m a work-a-holic, so there is very little down time. As an independent artist, you have to work twice as hard as the artist who are on a major label. When I do get time off, I spend it all with my family once the farm work is done.

Who is your biggest celebrity crush?

I am happily married to my beautiful wife Cheryl, so I haven’t had a crush on a celebrity in years. When I was a teenager, I thought Tanya Tucker was hot stuff. We are close to the same age, so it was a natural attraction. I met her many years ago at a function in Nashville, but I doubt she would remember me. It would be nice to see her again though.

Who is your favorite sports team(s)?

I’m not a team sport kind of guy. I grew up doing some team roping with my uncle and traveling the rodeo circuit for a short period. Rodeo is my sport.

What is the last movie that you watched?

Tombstone with Kust Russell.

What is the last album you listened to?

Conway Twitty’s Greatest Hits

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Lynyrd Skynyrd/Second Helping

What is the greatest country song of all time?

“I’m So Lonesome” I Could Cry by Hank Williams Sr.

What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?

Natchez, MS

What is your favorite meal?

Anything Southern fried.

Who is your dream duet partner?

Alison Krauss

Who would you like to go on tour with?

Hank Williams Jr. We have similar styles of music

The post Interview with Rick Revel first appeared on Hometown Country Music.]]> https://www.hometowncountrymusic.com/remembering-joe-bonsall-of-the-oak-ridge-boys/ Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:24:44 +0000 https://www.hometowncountrymusic.com/?p=44495 Sad news hit our inbox this morning as Joe Bonsall of The Oak Ridge Boys has passed away.  We will be updating this post later as the news spreads and we can collect some quotes about his passing. Joseph S. Bonsall (76) of Hendersonville, Tennessee passed on to Glory on July 9, 2024, from complications [...]

Sad news hit our inbox this morning as Joe Bonsall of The Oak Ridge Boys has passed away.  We will be updating this post later as the news spreads and we can collect some quotes about his passing.

Joe Bonsall – photo by Jon Mir

Joseph S. Bonsall (76) of Hendersonville, Tennessee passed on to Glory on July 9, 2024, from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. He leaves behind his precious wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, granddaughter Breanne, grandson Luke, two great grandsons, Chance and Grey, and a sister, Nancy. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall.

As a 50-year member of the American music group The Oak Ridge Boys, Joe was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame.

Joseph is also the author of 11 books including his latest, a memoir entitled I See Myself, which releases in November. Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write. He loved to play banjo. He loved working on the farm. And he loved the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first—and we will see him again on the Promised Day.

At the request of Joe, there will be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The ALS Association or to the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center.

The family is requesting privacy.

Here are some remembrances from his peers:

• Aaron Tippin – Joe Bonsall was one of the biggest influences on me as an entertainer. When I put my show together I wanted it to be as crazy as Hank Jr., as theatrical as Reba and as energetic as Joe. He was an amazing performer but more importantly, an amazing man. He’ll be greatly missed. Our family sends love and prayers to his.
• Bellamy Brothers – Heartbreaking to hear the news about Joe Bonsall passing. Joey was a true road brother and a great friend for many years. Deepest Condolences to his family and to all the @oakridgeboys organization and his many fans.
• Ben James (Oak Ridge Boys) – Joe was a true hero to me. His singing is something that I have admired since I was a kid. Nobody could do it like Joe could do it. He was such an encouragement to me. I feel honored that he chose me to sing the tenor line when he decided to come off the road. I try my best for Joe and the Boys every night but only Joe can fill that spot. The legacy he leaves with us is something that is irreplaceable. I am forever thankful I got to know and love one of my all-time heroes that was nothing but good to me. I will miss Joe Bonsall. Thank you for loving everyone you met and making them feel like the most important person in your life when you spoke to them. A true gentleman.
• Big Kenny Alphin (Big & Rich) – Heartbreaking to hear of the passing of our friend @joebonsall today. We will all sure miss his big smile and contagious joy. That amazing voice and spirit he shared with the world will now be front and center of a heavenly choir. Prayers go out to his family and @oakridgeboys brothers. #RIPjoebonsall
• Bill Anderson – Along with the rest of the world I was saddened this morning to learn of the passing of the multi-talented Joe Bonsall. Joe was a great singer, the consummate performer, and a dear friend. We not only had country music in common, but he loved baseball just as much as I do, and we had many friendly discussions as to which was the better team…his Philadelphia Phillies or my Atlanta Braves. I won’t say any money ever changed hands, but I won’t deny it either. I will think of Joe and miss him with every high note I hear sung and every crack of the bat that echoes across the summer skies. Rest in peace, my friend. You were truly one-of-a-kind.
• Billie Jo Jones – Joe Bonsall was an icon. Country music was heavily influenced by his music and voice. As heaven has gained another sweet man, he will be sorely missed.
• Billy Dean – The Oak Ridge Boys’ camp has suffered two losses with the passing of my friend Rusty Golden, son of William Lee Golden and Oak Ridge Boy tenor, Joe Bonsall. Their music is their testimony to a life of service, to God our creator, where they both dwell in harmony in heaven this day.
• Billy Ray Cyrus – He was amazing talent ….friend ….and legend. The world of country music lost a great talent ….but the angels in heaven gained an incredible voice.
• Blake Shelton – I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsalls passing. I’ve NEVER seen Joe when he wasn’t smiling and completely full of life. He absolutely loved singing like no one I ever met. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his @oakridgeboys brothers. We all lost a special person today.
• Brady Seals – As a member of Little Texas, I was always inspired by the harmonies of The Oaks. My heart goes out to Joe’s family. God bless him; he will be greatly missed.
• Chad Sitze (Flat River Band) – The brothers and I have always loved listening to the harmonies of The Oak Ridge Boys! Joe Bonsall will be missed! He’s definitely singing with the angels today!
• Collin Raye – I woke up today to the very sad news of Joe Bonsall’s passing. Even though I’d been somewhat expecting it, I still was hopeful something would improve to keep him going. The Lord has taken him Home. He was always SO kind and supportive to me. Always making comments in public of what he thought of me with that big room-filling personality. I’ll always be grateful to him for that support. I will miss his energy, his kindness and his spirit. This is a sad day for our industry and for The Mighty Oak Ridge Boys. Joe, I know you are with our Lord now. We’ll sure miss you here.
• Crystal Gayle – I have known, worked with, and loved Joe Bonsall and the Oaks for almost 50 years. It’s so hard to say goodbye to old friends, especially a true road warrior like Joe.
• Dallas Wayne – Joe was one of the most gracious, warm people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I so admired his talent as a vocalist and author (11 books in all), and even his banjo playing was a joy. Our deepest condolences go out to Mary Ann and their girls. Rest well…
• Dan Rogers (SVP/EP of the Grand Ole Opry) – Every single one of us at the Grand Ole Opry absolutely loved Joe Bonsall. The fans in the seats marveling at his on-stage energy. —Those tuned in around the world listening to his unmatched vocals as part of his beloved Oak Ridge Boys. —And all of us backstage laughing out loud at his antics and counting our lucky stars to have been in the orbit of such a loving, talented, wonderful human being. Safe travels, buddy. You are so loved.
• Darin & Brooke Aldridge – He had a voice that lifted straight to Heaven, with a heart and faith to match. We are heartbroken today to learn of the passing of our dear friend, Oak Ridge Boys tenor Joe Bonsall. For us, Joe was one of those people we felt we’d known for a lifetime from the first time we met him. He was a friend who always welcomed us with open arms, a smile and an encouraging word. He always cheered us on and was excited about our music, for which we are forever grateful. We were blessed to get to know him even better when we recorded “He’s Getting Me Ready” with The Oaks, a gospel song that reached to the foundation of faith in who Joe was. We know he was ready for his journey to his heavenly home, and we look forward to seeing him again one day.
• David Frizzell – I am so saddened by today’s news of losing Joe. We go back to the early 80s. We were all nominated for a Grammy, and The Oaks beat us out! We didn’t get to see each other enough. Say hello to Heaven, Joe Bonsall, and prayers to his family!!!
• Deborah Allen – Joe Bonsall was one of a kind! He was an amazing person and wonderful friend! I always loved the soul and joy in his incredible voice! As an entertainer his presence was electric and lit up the stage! I especially loved his tender heart for his family and friends, including Barney, his cat. My heart is with his beautiful, beloved wife Mary and his family at this time of deep loss. We will all love you and miss you forever, Joe.
• Dennis Quaid – The world has lost a familiar and beloved voice. Heaven welcomes another tenor to the Choir. See you there, Joe.
• Don McLean – Musicians like Joe Bonsall are not able to be replaced because gospel harmony is quite an art form. Unlike 3-part harmony or 4-part harmony is a whole different kind of mathematics. Joe was a true pioneer and original.
• Doug Gray (Marshall Tucker Band) – In this wonderful world, we are given the beginning, many friends, a blessing, and the end. God Bless Joe Bonsall, The Oak Ridge Boys and family.
• Duane Allen (Oak Ridge Boys) – When I look at Joe Bonsall’s life, I see a life fulfilled. The son of two military veterans, raised to become street-smart in the hood-influenced neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His parents taught him that he could be anything he wished to be if he worked hard, told the truth, and trusted in God. Joe could do anything he set his mind to do, but what impressed me the most was the energy, love, and compassion he put into everything he did and his unique gift to communicate those emotions and feelings into every performance, song, and book. Joe was “that” best friend that every person hopes to have in his life.
• Due West – We are saddened by the passing of one of the great voices of a generation. Joe and the rest of The Oaks paved the way for harmony groups like us and did so with a great amount of class. Our hearts go out to his family both on the road and at home. Thanks for the music, Joe Bonsall!
• Gene Watson – So very sorry to learn that our dear friend Joe Bonsall of the The Oak Ridge Boys has passed. What a great man and great artist he was. Prayers to his family, friends and to his Oak Ridge Boys family.
• Harry Wayne Casey (KC and the Sunshine Band) – I grew up listening to The Oak Ridge Boys. They were a gospel group at the time I grew up and my grandmother loved them and our other family members who also had gospel groups were influenced by them. Their harmonies have always been rich and pleasing to the ears. You could hear each individual voice through the iconic blend of their voices. There was and is something very special in their sound. I am saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Bonsall. He is singing with the angels and will be truly missed.
• Heath Wright (Ricochet) – The Heavenly choir gained another great tenor voice today. Joe had such an infectious energy both on and off stage. And the few times I got to be around him, he always had that wonderful smile and a good word to share. A true gentleman… He will be missed!
• Henry Paul (BlackHawk) – Joe Bonsall was one of the charming musical personalities that made The Oak Ridge Boys so incredibly popular. Joe’s youthful spirit drove their on-stage appeal. Joe’s passing is a real shock and totally unexpected. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
• Home Free – We could call Joe Bonsall a Country Music legend, a Hall of Famer, an award-winning author, a poet, or a devoted husband and father. We were unbelievably fortunate to be able to call him a great friend. Our hearts are heavy this morning after learning that our brother in @oakridgeboys moved on to the next life after a battle with ALS. From our first time meeting him, to recording a version of Elvira with him, to performing on a number of stages together, Joe has been a tremendous inspiration to us. We feel incredibly blessed to have had our paths cross. He was kind, funny, and gracious and more than generous with his time, energy and talents. He will be missed dearly. He payed forward his successes and we will continue to do the same in his honor. His legacy will live on in all of us and in the amazing music and friendships he’s left us with here on this Earth. Rest in peace, friend. Hi-yo Silver, away  ALS is a horrible disease and there’s not nearly enough funding for research. In lieu of any flowers, his family asked that donations be made to The ALS Association to the Vanderbilt ALS Research group. We’ll include some links to both below.
• Janie Fricke – The concerts I worked with The Oak Ridge Boys were amazing, as I heard their great blend of 4 voices – Joe had a unique sound and talent that is timeless and Universally appreciated, may God rest his soul.
• Jason Eady – I’m very sad to hear of the passing of Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys. One of my favorite stories of my entire career is about Joe. I was standing side stage at the Grand Ol’ Opry in 2022 getting ready to make my debut. I hadn’t been nervous until I walked to the side of the stage. Connie Smith was playing and I was up next. Courtney and I were just standing there taking it all in and I could start to feel the nerves creeping in. Not too bad but I could tell it was coming. Then I heard a voice over my shoulder say “Jason Eady?”. I turned around and it was Joe. He told me how he had all of my records and how much he loved my music, which absolutely blew me away. We immediately started talking and talked for the next 5 minutes straight. The next thing I knew the stage director motioned that they were about to introduce me. I had completely lost track of time or the fact that I was about to go on, I was so into that conversation. I felt completely relaxed and ready to go on. Not only had he distracted me from my nerves but he also gave me the confidence and validation that I needed at that exact moment. Then as I’m out there I look over and all of the Oak Ridge Boys are standing on the side of the stage watching the show. I got to tell the story on the Grand Ol’ Opry stage about how the Oak Ridge Boys were the first concert I ever went to, back in 1982 in Jackson, Mississippi. It really doesn’t get any more full circle than that.  I grew up listening to Joe’s voice and I’ll never forget that moment. One of the coolest 5 minutes of my life. Thanks Joe! You are a legend.
• JD Shelburne – I just got word that my friend & mentor @joebonsall of the @oakridgeboys has passed. I am at a loss. We had just texted on Tues. I always made sure we talked every single week. He did so much for me & my career. Say some prayers for his family, I am heartbroken.
• Jeannie Seely – This is not just another devastating loss to our business, this is a limb gone from the MIGHTY OAKS. There has never been a group like them. They have been a part of our lives in so many ways, sharing not only their music but their personal lives and families. Joe was a major part of that strength. His personality and smile reached out and grabbed you as much as that unmistakable voice. Somehow I believe those are etched in our memories, never to be forgotten.
• Jim Halsey (Manager of The Oak Ridge Boys) – God love you, Joe Bonsall. You have been an inspiration to fans, friends, and family, especially to me for 52 years. This is a very rough day.
• John Anderson – I was sad to hear about Joe today. He was such a great singer and entertainer, but above that, he was a wonderful person! I shall always treasure the great laughs we had and his words of encouragement to me very early in my career. Jamie and I send love and prayers to his family and friends during this time. We love you, Joe!”
• John Berry – My heart is heavy with the news that we lost Joe Bonsall of The Oak Ridge Boys. He had a kindness that always made you feel welcome! My heart goes out to his family and the boys in the band, they have endured much loss in a short time. But, as we mourn the loss, we can find joy knowing that Joe is in the presence of our loving savior, Jesus Christ.
• John Ford Coley – Losing someone like Joe Bonsall just breaks my heart. He was such a pillar in country music. They broke the mold when he was made. This is such a loss for our community. My prayers are with his family and the mighty Oak Ridge Boys during this difficult time.
• John McEuen – Joe Bonsall and I have crossed paths many times through our careers in music and each time, we picked up right where we left off. Many of us are in our “golden” years now and these times are always particularly difficult. I am thankful for his friendship, the songs he leaves behind, and comfort in the fact that his body isn’t suffering anymore. RIP Joe Bonsall.
• John Rich (Big & Rich) – We lost the great Joe Bonsall of the @oakridgeboys and country music is crying today. Joe was a real friend, and someone I looked up to not only as an artist, but as a man. He’s left a legacy of incredible music, and endless accounts of his kind heartedness.  #RIPJoeBonsall
• Johnny Lee – Joe has been a great friend through the years, and this one hits hard. Prayers for his family, The Oak Ridge Boys, the band, and his fans all over the world.
• Kody Norris – The Oak Ridge Boys are the epitome of a class act. We worked a show a few years back in Laughlin, Nevada, and the Oaks were playing at Don Laughlin’s Casino the same week. We got a chance to meet them after the show, and I’ll never forget how kind they were to us. Joe and I talked banjos for half an hour. Such a down-to-earth, kind-hearted gentleman, and I’ll always count it a privilege that I got to meet the man and get acquainted with him. Rest easy, Mr. Joe.
• Kyle Young (CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame) – For fifty years, Joe Bonsall was the Oak Ridge Boys’ sparkplug. His tenor voice was high and clear, and his jovial spirit always provided a jolt of energy, rousing audiences to come on in and take a load off. He lightened our cares every time he sang.
• Lacy J. Dalton – The Oak Ridge Boys was the first band I ever toured with. They were so good to me, and Joe was always really friendly and kind. You never forget someone who was that good to you on your first tour – they taught me a lot. Nothing but good memories.
• Larry Gatlin – I wrote a song for Joe a while back that he wanted to record. Here’s the first verse:
  I did my share of bus drivin…
  Loadin and unloadin
  When there was work to be done never once did I run and hide
  I sang every song from my heart
  Never once phoned in my part
  I was not just along for the ride
  SWEET JESUS knows
  I was not just along for the ride..
• Larry Stewart (Restless Heart/The Frontmen) – My heart is broken. I’ve known Joe since I was a teenager. The Oak Ridge Boys were friends of my dad. Joe has been a baseball buddy, and we just talked about life and sports. Rest in peace brother BanJoey! You will be missed.
• Lee Greenwood – I’m saddened by the loss of my friend of close to 50 years, Joe Bonsall. For so many years he was the high voice with The Oak Ridge Boys who I toured with almost every year of my career. Joe and I would have conversations on the road sometimes before a concert and sometimes afterwards about the crowd, the music and who we are as Americans. My family sends prayers to the Bonsall Family and The Oak Ridge Boys. We will miss you, Joe!
• Lisa Matassa – Words alone cannot describe what an incredible man Joe Bonsall was. He was always so kind and brought a smile to everyone he met. His passing leaves a huge void for everyone who has ever met him or heard him sing. Heaven has a new angel, and I will miss him terribly. Rest in peace, sweet Joe, until we meet again, my friend.
• Lulu Roman – When I think of Joe, I see his smile that would brighten any room. He is dancing on the streets of gold today as he always did on stage here. You left this world with wonderful memories and music that will never die. Love you, Joe.
• Maggie McClure & Shane Henry (The Imaginaries) – We’re saddened by the news of Joe Bonsall’s passing. What an amazing talent and an incredible career spanning 50+ years. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the entire Oak Ridge Boys team.
• Makenzie Phipps – Joe was an extraordinary entertainer. His magnificent tenor part with the Oak Ridge Boys will greatly be missed. Fly high, sir, fly high.
• Marty Raybon – Our condolences to Mary and the Bonsall family. It’s truly hard to see someone so energetic and so full of life as Joe was to leave here. He was a showman, and he was a friend to many. He was a Country Music Hall of Famer, but the best thing he would say of himself was he was a saved man and a loving husband. Nuff said.
• Michelle Wright – You were such a kind, talented soul. I always loved running into you on the road and seeing your smile. Thank you for all the years of music and fun. May you Rest In Peace Joe.
• Mickey Bell – From his early days in southern gospel music to his successful career in country, Joe was an encourager to other artists and always celebrated the wins of others. We didn’t just lose a great entertainer… we lost one of our highest cheerleaders.
• Moe Bandy – Joe Bonsall was a true friend who sang on several of my records. What a great talent who entertained so many people with his great voice and showmanship. I am so saddened. We will miss him so much.
• Nancy Jones – Sad day for me. The Oaks were family to George and I. So sad another family member is gone.
• Paige King Johnson – It hurts my heart to hear of Joe’s passing. He has been an instrumental voice in the Oak Ridge Boys for many years & had an undeniable presence in everything he touched. He will truly be missed by all music lovers! My thoughts & prayers go out to his friends and family during this time.
• Phil Vassar – Joe was such a nice guy. I love the Oak Ridge Boys, and Joe was so friendly whenever we performed together. He always had a smile on his face. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
• Ray Stevens – We lost an Oak Ridge Boy but the Heavenly Choir just got a fine new Tenor. Rest in Peace Joe Bonsall.
• Rhonda Vincent – A kind talented man I feel so lucky to have known. He will be so very missed. We send our love and prayers to his immediate family, and also to the millions of people around the world who loved him. Rest in Sweet Peace, Dear Friend.
• Richard Sterben (Oak Ridge Boys) – For many years, Joe was my best friend. We knew each other long before we both became members of The Oak Ridge Boys. He was a special person, who was loved by everyone and was a true inspiration to us all. He was also the best singing partner a person could have. For several years he bravely fought a terrible disease and was a trooper right up until the very end. There is no doubt that today, he is in a much better place – at HOME with Jesus. I will see you soon my dear friend.
• Richard Young (Kentucky Headhunters) – You know, The Kentucky Headhunters had two basket lists of acts we would love to play with. One was the Rolling Stones and the other was The Oak Ridge Boys. Both are the reason several types of music lives and breathes. Joe was the Mick Jagger of country and soulful gospel music and helped bring country to a new horizon with The Oaks. God Bless.
• Rick Monroe – Wow, this is heartbreaking and adds to an already tough week for the @theoakridgeboys family. Joe Bonsall was such a talented, kind & humble man. Always approachable with a big smile & a kind word. This is a huge loss. #RIP @joebonsall
• Ricky Skaggs – I’ve known that this day would be coming sooner than later. The Oaks have had their share of sorrows and pain the last few months with the passing of Dwayne’s precious wife Nora Lee, Bill’s recent loss of his son Rusty, and now the passing of our dear friend Joe. It’s been a lot for all of them to deal with. My prayer is that we as a music community and fellow believers in Jesus would pray for and reach out to the Oaks. The winds of change have blown really hard against them, but I know too that they are men of faith and they will get through this. ‘For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.’ (2 Corinthians 5:7-8, NKJV.)
• Rudy Gatlin – My heart is aching from hearing the news of the passing of my buddy Joe Bonsall. Or ‘Brother Bonsall’ as I liked to call him! He was a friend for 50 years, ever since he joined the Oak Ridge Boys, and friends of ours for 60 years! He was an amazing guy, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather and a great friend to so many! When he got a little sick in July 2022, I filled in for him a few times at the Oaks’ shows. And believe me, it wasn’t easy! I had to sing my ever-lovin’ butt off! His love of singing and entertaining with the Boys is legendary! Seriously, I don’t know anyone who enjoyed singing more than Joe Bonsall! I thought about Joe just last week. I was gonna call just to check up on him, to see how he’s doing and dang, but something came up and I didn’t get around to it. Well Joe, if you can hear me now, I love ya, gonna miss ya and can’t wait to see you on the other side!
• Sam Moore (Sam & Dave) – I’m so terribly saddened and sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. All I can say is from one tenor to another, keep singing in heaven, Joe, that voice of yours, the spirit for the Lord.
• Sammy Kershaw – It’s been a terrible week for The Oaks. Ever since I met Joe he has been very, very kind to me. God bless him and rest in peace.
• Sarah Traharn (CMA CEO) – When I think of the Oak Ridge Boys and their place in Country Music history, the image of Joe with his huge smile and boundless energy comes to mind so clearly. His commitment to serving others while developing Country Music into a worldwide sensation will never be forgotten and our industry has been made better because of him. Today, we lost an incomparable energy and voice in music. He will be missed greatly by all who were fortunate to know him.
• Storme Warren – Sad day. We lost Joe Bonsall. Rest in peace my friend. So many fantastic memories.
• T. Graham Brown – We just lost one of the world’s greatest human beings. Joe was like a brother and made me a better man. I, so, loved him and he loved Jesus with all of his heart. He was a sweetheart and every room brightened when he walked in. Sheila and I will miss him, terribly. Rest in peace.
• T.G. Sheppard & Kelly Lang – Losing a long-time friend in our business is like losing a member of your family. Joe was just that to Kelly and me. From the memories we made with him in the recording studio to working the road and doing television shows together, we will treasure them forever. We were so grateful to have him join us on our wedding day. His passing leaves a huge hole in our hearts. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to his family, The Oak Ridge Boys, and his fans. Until we meet again, dear friend.
• Taylor Hicks – Those stand out tenor vocals from Joe and the blend he created with the Oak Ridge Boys will never be matched.
• Terri Clark – So saddened by the news of the passing of Joe Bonsall …he was such gentleman and truly one of the kindest and most hard working men in music. His heart and energy will be dearly missed. Sending love and prayers to friends and family
• Terry McBride (McBride & The Ride) – Joe Bonsall helped define harmonies like no other. His contribution to The Oak Ridge Boys solidified his place in country music. Thank you for the music and memories, Joe!
• Tim Atwood – My heart is breaking. BREAKING! Joe Bonsall’s talent was beyond compare, matched only by his kindness, compassion, humor, and love. He loved his family–which after 50 years included The Oak Ridge Boys family. He loved his friends, his fans, and my goodness, he loved his country. He was a patriot.  He performed before Presidents and Kings, but he made me feel like royalty every time I was fortunate to perform alongside him. We even shot a television pilot together where I was Joe’s sidekick. What an honor. I loved Joe since the first time I heard him sing with the Keystones. I am praying for all of us who loved this wonderful man especially his wife and children, Duane, William Lee, and Richard. No doubt there’s a new tenor in Heaven’s choir today.
• Trace Adkins – Joe Bonsall was one of the kindest people I ever met. He was a rock star, and he was a wonderful human being. RIP Joe.
• Travis Tritt – This was one of the last performances that ⁦@joebonsall did with ⁦@oakridgeboys before leaving the group due to health issues. I cannot express the gratitude I feel that I had a chance to sing good gospel music with these legendary performers.
• Trey Calloway – I am truly brokenhearted to hear about the passing of Joe Bonsall. His amazing voice and stage presence were key ingredients in making the Oak Ridge Boys a cornerstone of our beloved genre. He will be missed and forever cherished. Rest in peace, legend.
• Will Wesley – Growing up, the Oak Ridge Boys were always playing in our home. Today, we’ve lost a true country music icon. The world will never be the same without Joe Bonsall, but we will also have those amazing songs. He was a true gift.
• William Lee Golden (Oak Ridge Boys) – This has been a week of sadness with the loss of my son, Rusty Golden, and now the loss of our brother and our partner of over 50 years, Joe Bonsall. Thankfully we have the memories made and the songs that we’ve sang together to get us through. It gives me comfort to know that Joe and Rusty are together again. Our prayers are with his family.

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